Preparing for Childbirth Classes

We know people learn in a variety of ways. Some like a lot of information, and some prefer just the basics. To accommodate a variety of schedules and learning styles, we offer the following classes:

NOTE: Please check with your insurance company as some companies will reimburse you for these childbirth classes. You should enroll in your fourth month of pregnancy for a childbirth education program, even though you will not begin the course until your 6th month. Call 413-794-BABY (794-2229), 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Preparation for Childbirth

This course will give you and your partner complete, up-to-date information about having a baby and enable you to become more informed and active participants in labor and delivery. The comprehensive 7-week course (depending on the calendar) includes:

There is practice time for relaxation and breathing techniques with individual assistance from the instructor, as well as an opportunity to become familiar with the hospital through a tour of the Wesson Women and Infants' birthing unit

Schedule: Seven weekly (depending on the holidays), two hours sessions , available Sunday through Thursday evenings.

This is a one and a half day class held on Saturdays from 9am to 4pm (one hour for lunch) on the first Saturday and 9am-12pm on the second Saturday that provides information including:

Stages of labor and delivery

Birth video

Basic comfort techniques

Medications

Tour of Birthing Center

Medical interventions and Cesarean birth

Basic baby care

Breastfeeding class is also included, but taken separately.

This is a good choice for parents who would not otherwise attend childbirth classes, or who have spent an extensive time reading about childbirth. It is also recommended for those who are taking the Marvelous Multiples classes. Register early for this class.

Schedule: Childbirth Express will be offered one Saturday a month from 9am-4pm with the tour and Infant Care class the next Saturday from 9am-12pm.